Five years after LawBreakers shut down, fans are stepping up to breathe new life into the gravity-defying multiplayer FPS game. The game, which was the first from Boss Key Productions, faced a premature closure due to poor sales. However, a dedicated group of fans have managed to create a workaround to play the game again. This past weekend marked the first public test for the revival project, with more playtesting expected to follow.
LawBreakers initially launched in August 2017 to mixed reviews. While the zero gravity segments were praised for their uniqueness, the game failed to resonate with a wider audience. Boss Key Productions, the studio behind the game co-founded by Cliff Bleszinski, faced closure less than a year after launch. Despite their attempt to tap into the battle royale trend with Radical Heights, the studio ultimately shut down in May 2018. LawBreakers publishers Nexon made the game free to play as a farewell gesture before officially shutting down the servers in September 2018.
Since 2020, a group of dedicated fans has been working on reviving LawBreakers. This weekend, the unofficial RELB Project successfully ran the first public tests for their launcher, enabling players to access the game once again. The technical trickery behind this project involves creating “fake” servers that the original game client can utilize. The project gained attention after Cliff Bleszinski himself highlighted it on social media.
While the revival of LawBreakers is a significant milestone for fans of the game, there are still some technical issues to be resolved. The team behind the RELB Project acknowledged that some classes were disabled, there was only one mode available, and there were technical hiccups during the test. They are actively working on fixing these issues but emphasized that it is a complex process due to the limited resources available.
Despite its initial lack of success, LawBreakers has garnered a dedicated fan base who appreciate its challenging gameplay and unique mechanics. Khee Hoon Chan, a fan of the game, expressed a sentiment shared by many players who have fond memories of the game. The captivating gameplay and intense competition offered by LawBreakers set it apart from other titles in the genre. The potential revival of the game has reignited interest among those who were reluctant to let it fade into obscurity.
The return of LawBreakers through the efforts of passionate fans serves as a testament to the enduring appeal of the game. As the RELB Project continues to fine-tune their workaround and address technical issues, the community eagerly awaits the next phase of playtesting. The revival of LawBreakers showcases the power of dedicated fans to keep a beloved game alive, even after official support has ended.
The resurgence of LawBreakers is a heartwarming example of the impact that passionate fans can have on the gaming community. By coming together to revive a game that holds a special place in their hearts, fans are preserving a piece of gaming history for future generations to enjoy. The dedication and resilience of the LawBreakers community serve as a reminder of the lasting legacy that games can leave behind.
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